The travellers and hoteliers worldwide have been watching closely The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection project unfold since 2017, when The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company announced the launch of an unrivalled maritime venture. In December 2018 the name of the inaugural yacht leading the luxury fleet has been finally revealed at the International Luxury Travel Market (ILTM) in Cannes, France.

The Grand Suite (bedroom), The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection

The Grand Suite (living area)

The Terrace Suite

A Spanish word “azul” (blue) has become an inspiration for the first yacht glorifying the beauty of the azure sky and ocean: it will go by the name Azora.

Azora will become the first of three yachts to mark the beginning of a new era in luxury travelling by The Ritz-Carlton, which is about to begin in 2020. The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection will invite guest to explore itineraries combining renowned resorts with secluded spots in the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, the Caribbean, Latin America, Canada and New England (USA): the size of the yachts will allow the guests to reach small harbours and city ports unavailable for large cruise ships.

Aqua restaurant at the Azora yacht

Azora yacht

The Shore Collection of excursions will fit tastes and preferences of all guests without repeating the ports: they will be able to choose from Iconic Sights, Stirring the Senses, Cultural Connections, Active Explorations and Epicurean Experiences, guided by Concierge Ashore at each destination ensuring unique cultural experience. The journeys will vary from seven to ten nights, the guests being tended by experienced crew ensuring the signature service of the Ritz-Carlton.

Main pool deck of the Azora yacht

Azora yacht

Azora’s keel laying ceremony, which took place at the Hijos De J. Barreras Shipyard in Vigo (Spain), in January 2018, was held by Douglas Prothero, chief executive officer of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, and Timothy Grisius, global real estate officer for Marriott International, accompanied by VIP guests, who welded coins to the hull as a tribute to the maritime tradition to bring luck to the yacht.

Azora yacht, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection

Azora yacht, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection

Azora will set sail in 2020, while her future guests are already able to book itineraries.

The Stanley Hotel (USA) appears in a very popular and funny film “Dumb and dumber”, but the hotel is shown under different name as the Danbury Hotel. The hotel is one of the Historic Hotels of America.